What’s the Difference Between a Tornado Watch and a Tornado Warning?

Tornado Watch vs. Warning: Understanding the Difference

The difference between a tornado warning and tornado watch is more than just the colors that represent them in the corner of a television screen. Knowing when the possibility of a tornado exists and when one is imminent will help keep you and your family safe.

Tornado Watch

Tornado watches are issued when weather conditions are ripe for developing tornadoes, but one has not been spotted. Certain atmospheric conditions are favorable for strong storm development, which may produce tornadoes. Stay tuned to local news and weather sources for the latest information and be sure your weather alert radio is nearby.

When a tornado or severe thunderstorm watch is issued, take a few minutes to make sure your emergency preparedness kit is stocked and ready. It's also a good time to review your family's emergency plan and prepare your shelter area with protective coverings such as blankets, mattresses and helmets in case a warning is issued for your location.

Tornado Warning

Tornado warnings are issued when a tornado is occurring or about to occur. When Doppler radar indicates a warning, strong rotation is happening within the storm and a tornado may touch down at any moment. Warnings may also be issued when funnel clouds are spotted or eyewitnesses report a tornado on the ground.

Remember: All tornado warnings should be taken seriously. That's why it's important to know the difference between a tornado watch vs. warning. Even when the warning is issued based on Doppler radar data, a tornado might already be on the ground. You should take cover immediately whenever a tornado warning is issued for your area and remain in your safe spot until the warning is officially lifted.

Where that safe place is depends on where you are at the time the tornado warning is issued. When you're in a public building, head toward the designated storm shelter. There may or may not be signs posted so be prepared to find it without help. If you're at home, take cover in the basement away from walls and windows or an interior room on the lowest floor away from windows and doors. Exit cars, trailers or mobile homes and find the nearest sturdy building. If you can't find or get to a sturdy shelter, lie down in a low ditch and protect your head as best as you can.

Invest in a battery backup powered weather alert radio for your home or business in case the power goes out or a tornado watch or tornado warning is issued while you're asleep. If you're away from home, take a portable NOAA weather alert radio and locate the best shelter near you in case a warning is issued.

Prepare Before Tornado Season

FEMA recommends that everyone think seriously about tornadoes ahead of storm season, which includes the following:

• Know your area's tornado risk- the Midwest and Southeast have a greater risk for tornadoes
• Know the signs of a tornado
• Ensure you have a proper warning system- have a NOAA Weather Radio plugged in with battery back up in your home, an emergency crank weather radio for power outages, ensure you're signed up to receive alerts from The Emergency Alert System (EAS)
• Pay attention to local weather reports 
• Identify and practice going to your "safe place"- make sure everyone knows where to go and when so that even if someone isn't home at the time of the storm, everyone else in the house knows how to get to shelter
• Plan for your pet- share with your family because they're also a member of the family
• Prepare for a long-term stay at home or sheltering in place- gather emergency supplies, cleaning supplies, non-perishable foods, water, medical supplies, and medication

NOAA Weather Radios for Home

If you live in areas prone to tornadoes, it's essential you have multiple, redundant ways of receiving alerts. NOAA Weather Radios are essential like Midland's WR120 Weather and Emergency Alert Radio.

Cell phones are great, but towers can become destroyed or damaged during severe weather. NOAA Weather Radios bring the fastest, most accurate information straight from the National Weather Service. 

Not to mention, tornadoes can often strike overnight while you're asleep, making them particularly dangerous and deadly. With the WR120's 90 dB siren, you're sure to awaken and get the household to safety. 

With battery backup, the WR120 is your home base weather radio. Keep it plugged in and located in a central location like the master bedroom, living room, or kitchen to ensure everyone hears the alerts loud and clear. 

Portable Emergency Alert Radios

Tornadoes can damage electricity lines leading to prolonged power outages, destroy homes, and cell towers.

That's why it's also important to have a a portable emergency alert radio.

These are great for grabbing once your wall NOAA Weather Radio and heading to the basement or storm shelter. 

Midland's portable emergency alert weathers will bring you the same alerts from the National Weather Service anytime, anywhere. 

They're also equipped with multiple power sources including solar, hand crank, and rechargeable lithium-ion batteries so that you're sure to continue receiving alerts no matter how long you're sheltered in place. 

When the power is out, Midland's portable emergency hand crank radios also boast powerful flashlights to help you safely navigate dimly lit or dark areas. 

Midland's ER310 can also charge other devices like your cell tower or walkie talkies.